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Otsu

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Can you imagine a capital city lasting only five years? Otsu, nestled on the shores of Lake Biwa, briefly held that title. In 667, Emperor Tenji declared Otsu, then known as Otsu-kyo, the capital of Japan. This period predates Kyoto’s reign as the imperial center. Otsu’s time in the spotlight was short-lived, but its historical significance remains. Otsu boasts a rich tapestry of history and nature. It sits beside Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake. Looming over Otsu is Mount Hiei, a cradle of Japanese Buddhism. Within Otsu lies Omi Jingu Shrine. This shrine honors Emperor Tenji. It’s also a revered site for Karuta, a traditional Japanese card game. Otsu is conveniently close to Kyoto. A mere 10-minute train ride connects these two historic cities. You can easily reach Otsu from major cities like Tokyo and Nagoya. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Kyoto Station and transfer to the JR Biwako Line to arrive at Otsu Station. Once in Otsu, Keihan Bus and Omi Bus provide convenient transportation. Otsu offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. From the serene waters of Lake Biwa to the spiritual heights of Mount Hiei, Otsu has something for everyone. The city’s history whispers tales of emperors, ancient capitals, and the enduring spirit of Japan. Otsu invites you to explore its unique charm and discover the stories etched within its landscape.

Learning about Otsu in Kyoto is only the beginning of your adventure. Explory helps you go further with a powerful digital guide that transforms every walk into an experience. Using our intuitive city guide, you can easily connect stories with locations, creating your own city tour while enjoying Kyoto at your own rhythm. Explory’s goal is to make your trip unforgettable. Our guide combines storytelling with orientation, giving you the chance to uncover the rich layers of Kyoto. Thanks to the integrated audio guide, you can listen to fascinating narratives while exploring the streets. Beyond the well-known attractions, Explory highlights hidden gems and secret corners that make the city truly unique. With the city guide, you’ll gain insights and flexibility. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular traveler, the app offers exploration on your terms. Each curated city tour blends local culture, history, and atmosphere into one seamless experience. The emphasis on exploration ensures you won’t just see Kyoto, but actually connect with it. And because our content reveals hidden gems, you’ll always discover something new. Expand your journey by downloading the Explory App. Explore over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories, all accessible from your phone. Whether you need a trusted guide, a flexible audio guide, or a structured city tour, Explory offers everything in one place. Start your adventure today and explore Kyoto like never before with Explory.

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